Alaska Rafting Tours

Floating down the river, you hear the rush of water approaching. Suddenly you see them: the unmistakable caps of whitewater. Before you know it you're in the middle of the rapids, holding on tight as water splashes all around. You spin and speed down the raging tides, white-knuckled yet smiling from ear to ear. Or perhaps you'd prefer to skip the rollercoaster ride and relax on a gentle float through a silent stretch of pristine Alaska wilderness, as nature goes about its business.Whether you choose a whitewater adventure or a scenic float trip, visitors will enjoy their time on the water, regardless of age or ability. These trips are some of the best ways to connect with nature in Alaska. You're outdoors, away from motors and exhaust, working closely in concert with the water. Because of our massive glacier runoff and rainwater drainage, Alaskan rivers serve up more adventure than most anything you'd find in the Lower 48—from the Kenai Peninsula's Sixmile River to Denali's Nenana River.

There are so many amazing adventures to be had in Alaska. So why should you go Alaska whitewater rafting or calm water rafting?

It's Remote

Alaska rafting puts you right in the middle of nature, giving you up-close views of Alaska's wildlife.and its unique topography. Glaciers have carved U-shaped valleys and channels that move swiftly through the landscape. It also gives you an up-close look at wildlife.

It's Easy

Even a first-timer can experience advanced Alaska whitewater runs. Because of the high level of professionalism and experience in Alaska's river guides, you needn't have gone rafting before to enjoy it.

It's Cheap

Dollar for dollar, rafting is one of Alaska's best values. A basic 2-3 hour Alaska whitewater rafting trip or scenic float could cost between $50-85, versus $175 or more for a 1.5-hour flightseeing trip, or $450 or more for a full-day bear-viewing safari.

It's Historic

Rafting was used by those trying to make it upriver to the goldfields at the turn of the century. Sure, today's rafts are made of advanced vinyls and not the hand-hewn log rafts of yesteryear. But people moved through the country by water looking for gold, to go hunting, or to migrate to new, richer areas. And it's easy to imagine yourself as a pioneer while traveling this way.

How-To Tips

When planning a rafting trip, make sure you pick the right style for you. There are two basic types:

• Whitewater rafting: Sometimes akin to a rollercoaster ride: Calm water followed by raging tides. You'll be white-knuckled but smiling from ear to ear. (Don't worry—even first-timers can handle it, and your guides are experienced.)
• Scenic Floats: Sounds mellow, and it is. Relax on a gentle float through a silent stretch of pristine Alaska wilderness, as nature goes about its business. The emphasis is on wildlife viewing.